iPhone 3G & Navionics SeaMap

[foucault76]

Hi there, for those of you who are looking into handy GPS devices on the deck, I like to notify that Navionics made available the application and the maps for Apple's iPhone.

Last June I was just wondering to buy a Garmin GPS 76CSx, but then the Navionics map-application went down from 79.99 to 9.99 €. So I saved some bucks and downloaded the app for iPhone.

It works like magic: waypts, tracks, info (location, telephone n., e-mail address) about marinas, harbour, boat assistance (nautical, mechanical, electrical), detailed info for mooring.

I tried those maps last week in Adriatic sea (mediterranean), I think it is worth to buy it.

If you already have an iPhone (3G or 3Gs) don't miss it, if you're looking into buy a handy gps, reconsider for an iPhone.

Bye
F.

[anotherT34C]

The iphone is a wonderful cruising tool. However, it isn't at all suited for the marine environment. Otter-box helps.

Bottom line... you'll probably kill one every year or two, using it in a marine environment. I paid $200 for mine, and consider it a consumable to be replaced every ~18 months. When considering boat stuff, $200 every 18 months isn't that much really, for such a useful tool.

[Sandero]

I understand that it is "marinized", but do you think if you bring your iPhone aboard... when you cruise using it as a phone will bring certain marine death?

Is it water, humidity, salt?

Does that apply to living on land abutting the sea? Working/living at a marina?

[foucault76]

Well you're all right...water and salt could damage the iPhone, but an ottebox will help.
Anyway, I only sail 1 or 2 weeks a year on vacation...

Bye
F.

[JNoel]

I agree with the cost of the phoneand water, but on an average I to purchase a new phone for all the new features about every 18 months. I have had a Outter box for the past 8 months and it has saved my iphone while boating.

[Sandero]

I find the battery sux with a 3G... meaning it needs to be plugged into a charge when using a nav program.

[foucault76]

Well I got a 3Gs (they said it has an improved battery), with the Navionics app on it lasts more than 8 hrs, which was enough for my holiday sailing programme.

F.

[anotherT34C]

I put a 12v car charger outlet near the companionway. iPhone battery life sux. If you remember to shut down wifi, that helps. And never leave it where it gets hot.

I don't know about certain death in a marine environ. I would say it makes an early death more likely. I'm just careful, and hope for the best.